What are the causes of car steering deviation?
3 Answers
Reasons for car steering deviation: 1. Unequal tire pressure, mainly caused by inconsistent tire pressure in the driving wheels. If the left and right tire pressures are unequal, it will result in different degrees of wear between the driving wheels and the ground, and different friction forces will directly cause steering deviation; 2. Abnormalities in the car's steering system can also lead to steering deviation, such as bending or deformation of the steering knuckle arm or steering knuckle, which generally causes the car to deviate to one side; 3. The use of tires with different tread patterns on both sides or uneven wear on both sides can also result in different friction forces between the tires and the ground, leading to braking deviation.
I've seen many cases of vehicle pulling issues, with the most common being uneven tire pressure. A significant pressure difference between left and right tires will naturally pull the car toward the side with lower pressure. Uneven tire wear has a similar effect - the side with severe wear has weaker grip, causing steering instability. Another key factor is incorrect wheel alignment, possibly caused by frequent parking on bumpy roads or speed bumps. Brake system failures like one-sided brake drag can also pull the wheel. Aging suspension components, such as worn control arms or ball joints, can cause wheel misalignment. I recommend regularly checking tire conditions and measuring pressure balance quarterly, as summer heat can easily affect it. Regular alignment calibration can prevent this problem. Don't ignore safety - pulling at high speeds can be dangerous, potentially causing loss of control or rapid tire wear. Address any abnormalities at a professional shop as soon as possible to prevent minor issues from becoming major ones.
From a mechanical perspective, wheel misalignment can be influenced by multiple factors. Uneven tire pressure and irregular tire wear are fundamental issues. Suspension component failures such as damaged shock absorbers or control arms can alter wheel angles. Steering system problems like loose tie rods or steering gear affect control precision. Incorrect wheel alignment settings, such as improper front wheel camber, may cause persistent deviation. Brake system issues like one-sided caliper seizure can create wheel dragging. For diagnosis, professional equipment should be used to inspect suspension and steering linkage points. For prevention, it's recommended to have technicians briefly check alignment data during each maintenance service and replace aged rubber components. Misalignment accelerates abnormal tire wear, increases fuel consumption and accident risks, with particularly noticeable effects during rainy conditions or high-speed driving, making timely resolution crucial.
